Eco-Reserve and Animal Rescue Center in Costa Rica

  Costa Rica

• North Western Region: 
San Carlos

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks and 5-8 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: Please Visit our Website for updates

Description: Based on a private ecological reserve in the rain forests of northern Costa Rica, this project is tackling many issues that the small community faces. Many of Costa Ricas rescued animals are brought to the site as a permanent or temporary home until they are able to be released back in to the wild. The project also demonstrates its care for the environment through many ongoing conservation projects that help to protect the natural beauty of the rain forest. In addition, a womens cooperative is making products out of recycled materials and banana paper to not only learn useful handicraft skills that help generate a small income for their family but it also increases their self-esteem and self-sufficiency. A primary school is located nearby allowing children in the community to receive a decent education from a young age.

Volunteers are needed to help in the Animal Rescue Center building cages, feeding animals, observing them and administering general care. Volunteers will also be helping out with a variety of conservation projects on the reserve including planting trees, digging ponds, and gardening. There is also the option to teach English in the local school or help the womens group to make products out of banana paper to sell in order to gain a small income.

The project is located in a rural town in San Carlos province, about 2.5 hours north of San Jose by bus.   

Highlights: - Homestay with a carefully screened, welcoming host family
- Three meals daily
- Comprehensive accident and medical insurance
- 24 hour emergency support

Qualifications: A beginner-intermediate level of Spanish is required. Spanish language classes are available before or during your project for an additional fee. Volunteers must be prepared to work outside and engage in hands on conservation work.

Cost in US$: Starting at USD1,150

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Greenheart Travel volunteers are flexible and caring people who are interested in an authentic exchange experience.

Age Range: 18 and up

This Program is open to American and Canadian Participants.

Application Process Involves:

• Written Application

Greenheart Travel's Mission Statement: Greenheart Travel is a division of the Center for Cultural Interchange. Founded in 1985, the Center for Cultural Interchange (CCI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of cultural understanding, academic development and world peace. Greenheart is CCI's way of promoting the health and welfare of the earth and its people through cultural exchange, ethical travel, responsible consumerism, and community service.

Year Founded: 1985